Tammy Vener views the Early Childhood Education department as a place where young families can begin or continue their Jewish journey. It is with great joy that she welcomes and helps families share and engage in a Jewish life. Tammy has been the congregation's Early Childhood Director for ten years. In 1981 she became a fourth-grade teacher at the Jewish Day School that was then opening its doors at Congregation Beth Israel. She taught in the Beth Israel Day School for three years. After her son was born, she continued as the science teacher and as the unit head in charge of the older campers at the former Camp Beth Israel. (Tammy's husband, Louie, was the director of Camp Beth Israel.) Tammy graduated from San Diego State with a BA in Liberal Arts in 1979. The following year she received her California teaching credential and taught in San Diego City Schools. Tammy is a founding board member of the ECE-RJ (Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism). Last year she was the chairperson for their national convention. This year she was elected to serve a two-year term as VP of Communications. Tammy is married to Louie Vener and the couple has three children, Jacob, Molly and Sophie, all of whom attended the Beth Israel Day School. The Vener family has been active Temple members for many years.

Cathy joined our preschool administrative staff in 2006. Born and raised in Wisconsin, she moved to San Diego in 1985 to attend the University of San Diego. After earning her Bachelor of Business Administration degree, she served as a Marine Corps Officer for six years. Cathy and her husband Gordon have two children, Jake and Ian, and live in University City.

Lynn works in the office supporting the preschool staff. Lynn also coordinates Tot Shabbat and other special events at the School. Lynn and her husband Jerry were married at CBI 20 years ago and have two children who went through the Preschool and Religious schools.

go to top